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Explain to the class that folktales from all around the world frequently use familiar motifs and elements, such as these: the youngest and smallest of siblings is successful after others in the family fail wishes are grantedmagic objects (rings, beans, or tablecloths) are standard props animals talk monsters often appear use of trickery the number three is significant (however, in Native American folktales, four is the magic number)use of a variety of tools a poor person becomes rich

Share with the students the fact that folktales are usually about ordinary people and everyday life. Other general characteristics that identify a story as a folktale include these elements: The stories begin quickly. Characters are uncomplicated (flat, not round; or one-sided, not multi-sided). Plots move swiftly along well-trod paths. All questions are answered before the story ends, but there is plenty of room for flexibility within the plot, from beginning to happy ending. These characteristics comprise the folktale formula.

While folktales share motifs and a common formula, they can be grouped according to certain types of tales. Listed below are groups of stories distinguished by an overarching motif. tales of talking animals tales that tell why (Pourquoi tales) tales of magic (fairy tales) cumulative tales tales of exaggeration (silly folk and legendary figures)

Folktales: Fables This is a collection of literature sites with online fables. There are fables by Aesop and other authors, lesson plans, and classroom activities that compare and contrast the elements of fables. Included are eThemes Resource on tall tales and fairy tales.